Traditional education has changed vastly over the last couple of years. From being present in a lecture hall or classroom, the digital world has enabled students to study from anywhere and at any time. Online education is arguably one of the digital era’s best innovations and it comes with several advantages.
1. Study from anywhere in the world
Arguably one of the most compelling advantages of studying online is that it affords you the freedom of studying what you want, from wherever you want to. Whether this is from the comfort of your home or while travelling the world, online studying gives you the freedom to live a full life while pursuing a rewarding career.
2. A flexible schedule
For working professionals especially, having the freedom and flexibility to learn at their own pace makes learning while pursuing a full-time career much easier and why you should study online. Completing a qualification takes time, so fitting it into your schedule gives you the flexibility to establish an education plan that works for your life. IIE-Vega Distance courses are perfect for ambitious people looking for flexibility and balance. Sessions are conveniently timed, recorded and easily accessible from anywhere, at any time. This allows you to repeat, replay, rewind and fast-forward in your own time. Course material, virtual information centre and content support are also just a click away.
3. A wide range of courses
Distance or online learning has gained popularity over the last few years. This shift has resulted in an increase in courses, programmes, and tertiary institutions you can choose from. Whether you’re entering higher education for the first time, returning for postgraduate studies, or wanting to make a career move, you can do it all online.
4. It’s the best of both worlds
Studying online doesn’t mean that you won’t have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the full student experience. While online classes may be smaller than contact on campus sessions, you will get the opportunity to virtually engage with students all over South Africa and abroad. Depending on your programme of choice, you may be given the chance to engage with others, to collaborate and exchange ideas virtually.
5. Study while working
Many students work part-time or full time while studying to pursue their career. While on campus contact classes may restrict the time you have available to work, distance learning allows you to add classes into your working schedule. This is beneficial if you’re paying for your studies yourself or if you’re adding a new skillset to accelerate your career.
6. A supportive environment
Feeling supported while studying online is an important factor in successfully completing and excelling in your qualification. The support you receive will vary greatly, depending on the institution and programme you choose. Should you decide to study at the IIE-Vega, your distance learning will be facilitated by an experienced team of professionals dedicated in helping you during your learning journey.
7. Easy accessibility
Accessing distance learning doesn’t require much in terms of hardware. To complete most online courses, you will need a reliable computer or tablet and stable internet. IIE-Vega students will need the following in terms of technology, time and materials:
Postgrad
- A reliable internet connection (we recommend 5-10 GB of data per month), your own device with at least Windows 8 or macOS 10.15 (Microsoft Office 365 is available as a free download for IIE students), and Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge Chromium or Firefox.
- An uninterrupted power supply is also highly recommended.
- Prescribed textbooks are available for online purchase.
- Distance students need to commit to approximately 12-15 hours a week for distance engagement (most of which is after hours) with material and assessments to succeed.
- All final semester exams need to be written at an IIE campus or other approved exam centre
Undergrad
- The appropriate technology equipment and tools are essential to succeed in distance study.
- A reliable internet connection (we recommend 5-10 GB of data per month), your own device with at least Windows 8 or macOS 10.15 (Microsoft Office 365 is available as a free download for IIE students), and Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge Chromium or Firefox.
- An uninterrupted power supply is also highly recommended.
- Software license requirements: Year 1: Adobe Photoshop CC 2018.
- Prescribed textbooks are available for online purchase.
- Distance students need to commit to approximately 20-25 hours a week for distance engagement (most of which will be after hours) with material and assessments to succeed.
- All final semester exams need to be written at an IIE campus or other approved exam centre.
8. Less distractions
While attending on campus lectures and socialising with your peers, is part and parcel of student life for contact students, having less distractions while studying for distance student is highly beneficial. Not only can you concentrate better during the time that you’re online, but you can set aside specific time to study. Smaller classes also offer a more interactive learning experience and less distractions.
9. Stand out from the crowd
If you decide to embark on this journey, you are bound to stand out from your peers. Taking online courses shows current and potential employers that you want to improve your skillset and advance your career, thus making you an attractive choice.
Pursuing distance learning also takes a certain set of skills to succeed. While it’s not for everyone, those who choose this path require certain abilities and characteristics. You need to be self-motivated and invested in your learning journey. Studying online requires you to be disciplined to balance studying with work and family commitments. Diligence is also a major factor, as you’ll have to direct your own studies.
10. Progressing your career
Studying further is bound to assist you in starting or furthering your career. If you choose the IIE’s Vega, you’re selecting a distinctively brand-centric school boasting a high level of respect in the industry. Spark your creativity and grow strategically with the IIE-Vega, where you can fully merge your learning in strategy, creativity and innovation.
If you’re considering furthering your education or starting a new journey in the exciting world of brand, design and business, find out about more about the IIE-Vega Distance learning here: https://www.vegaschool.com/online